A large area of Surrey is included in a map marking out communities that could be affected by increased aircraft noise from Gatwick Airport.

It is part of a 12-week public consultation - representing the second phase of Gatwick’s 'airspace change programme' to modernise routes into and out of the airport - looking at design options for departure routes and associated Noise Preferential Routes (NPRs) for departing aircraft, which are designed to ensure flights avoid built-up areas, plus night-time respite options for arrivals.

The development of new flight paths could have an impact on Godalming, Cranleigh and other villages in Waverley, villages in Mole Valley to the south of Dorking, the Redhill, Reigate and Horley area, as well as Bletchingley, Oxted, Lingfield and more of Tandridge.

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Gatwick is set to write to relevant MPs, parish councils and local authorities and said it would engage directly with some affected communities.

The maps and consultation document show where possible new flight paths will go and feedback can be given either online or through relevant MPs and councillors.

Gatwick has pledged that no new communities will be overflown, with the exception of those affected by a potential new departure route to the west of the airport.

Residents will also have the chance to give their views on the widths of new and existing NPRs.

The narrower the NPR, the less people potentially affected by aircraft, but this consequently concentrates flights over a smaller area.

Tom Denton, head of corporate responsibility at London Gatwick, said: “Our local residents and communities are a key priority when it comes to airspace change.

“We want to minimise noise for as many people as we possibly can – and where that’s not possible – offer respite options as a mitigating measure.

“We urge all local communities to have their say in this second phase so we can benefit as many people as possible.”